Analyzing Learning Persistence Determinants in Virtual Learning Environments Using Mixed Methodology

This research analyzes the impact of various factors and their relatable aspects, such as contextual (academic), external (environmental), and internal (personal) of students' learning persistence in virtual environments as critical aspects of online learning advancement and academic success. Utilizing a mixed methodology approach that combines qualitative and quantitative methods, this study leverages an educational dataset from Harvard and MIT, employing a multinomial logistic regression (MLR) model to detect the correlation among diverse learning factors and online persistence classes with the triple class label (positive persistence, negative persistence, and absence of persistence). The classification accuracy achieved in the MLR model reached 96%. Supporting evidence from online surveys and expert interviews further underscores the combined influence of academic, demographic, and environmental factors on learning persistence. The quantitative analysis highlights the significant influence of contextual factors, particularly achievements and activities, on learning persistence, while internal factors like gender and birth year have minimal impact. Qualitative analysis reveals a mix of internal, external, and contextual factors affecting persistence, including academic support, peer communication, and family support. Expert interviews confirm the importance of multidimensional features and highlight challenges ranging from technological access to varied learning styles. Suggestions for enhancing persistence include implementing supportive online tools and intelligent tutoring systems. This research's contribution lies in its holistic examination of online persistence-influencing factors through a mixed methodology lens, facilitating the identification of learning persistence; it aims to enhance support mechanisms for students in virtual learning environments, potentially improving educational outcomes and online learning experience. This innovative approach underscores the importance of understanding and addressing the various influencers of learning persistence to foster more successful outcomes in digital education contexts.